Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

Name: Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/4 teaspoon baking powder; 3/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt; 2 large eggs; 3/4 cups granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1/4 cup milk (I used whole); Zest of 2 lemons; 8 oz cream cheese (softened); 4 oz unsalted butter (softened); 4 cups powdered sugar (sifted); Zest of 1 lemon; 1 oz freeze dried strawberries

Published: July 11, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Refreshing Flavor: The combination of lemon and strawberry provides a zesty and fruity experience that’s perfect for warm days.
Easy to Make: This recipe is simple enough for bakers of all levels, making it a stress-free addition to your dessert repertoire.
Versatile Frosting Options: Enjoy the choice of strawberry or lemon cream cheese frosting, allowing you to customize each cupcake to your liking.
Perfect for Sharing: With 14 servings, these cupcakes are ideal for sharing at picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings.
Visually Stunning: The vibrant colors of the frosting and the garnish make these cupcakes as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Stand mixer or hand mixer
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons
Cupcake pan
Cupcake liners
Offset spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Stand mixer or hand mixer: These tools provide consistent mixing and help achieve a light, fluffy batter.
Cupcake pan: The right pan ensures even baking and helps shape the cupcakes perfectly.
Offset spatula: Ideal for spreading frosting smoothly on each cupcake, giving them a professional look.

Ingredients

For the Cupcakes

1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
3/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
2 large eggs
3/4 cups granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1/4 cup milk (I used whole)
Zest of 2 lemons

For the Frosting

8 oz cream cheese (softened)
4 oz unsalted butter (softened)
4 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Zest of 1 lemon
1 oz freeze dried strawberries

How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your cupcake pan with cupcake liners.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients:
* all-purpose flour
* baking powder
* baking soda
* salt

In another bowl, whisk together:
* eggs
* granulated sugar
* vanilla extract
* vegetable oil
* lemon juice
* milk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 3: Bake the Cupcakes

Fill each cupcake liner about two-thirds full with batter. Bake in preheated oven for about 15 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow them to cool completely on a wire rack.

Step 4: Make the Frosting

In a stand mixer, beat together:
* softened cream cheese
* softened butter until smooth. Gradually add in sifted powdered sugar until fully incorporated. Mix in vanilla extract and lemon zest.

For added flavor, fold in crushed freeze-dried strawberries into half of the frosting if you want that strawberry twist!

Step 5: Frost the Cupcakes

Using an offset spatula, generously frost each cooled cupcake with either strawberry cream cheese frosting or lemon cream cheese frosting. Decorate as desired with additional freeze-dried strawberries or lemon zest on top.

Enjoy your delicious Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes!

How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

These delightful Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes can be served in various ways to elevate your summer gatherings. Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual picnic, these cupcakes are sure to impress.

For a Summer Party

Colorful Platter: Arrange the cupcakes on a bright platter to enhance their vibrant colors.
Themed Decor: Use lemon slices and strawberries as garnishes around the plate for a fun touch.

With Refreshing Beverages

Lemonade Pairing: Serve alongside chilled lemonade for an extra citrus kick.
Sparkling Water: Offer sparkling water with lemon wedges to keep things refreshing.

As Party Favors

Mini Boxes: Package individual cupcakes in small boxes tied with ribbon for guests to take home.
Personalized Tags: Add tags with your name and event date for a personal touch.

How to Perfect Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

To make the best Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes, follow these essential tips for amazing results every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh lemons and strawberries to enhance flavor.
Room Temperature Eggs: Ensure eggs are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness.
Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter just until combined to avoid dense cupcakes.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cupcakes a few minutes before the suggested baking time; they should spring back when touched.
Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow cupcakes to cool entirely before adding frosting to prevent melting.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add more zest or use different fruits in the frosting for variety.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

These Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes can be complemented by several delicious side dishes that enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances sweetness.
Grilled Chicken Skewers: Lightly seasoned chicken skewers provide savory contrast to the sweet cupcakes.
Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with lemon vinaigrette is refreshing and pairs well with cupcakes.
Cheese Platter: Include a selection of cheeses like goat cheese or brie for a rich and creamy addition.
Vegetable Crudités: Fresh veggies served with dip offer a crunchy balance against the sweetness of the cupcakes.
Ice Cream Sundae Bar: Let guests create their own sundaes for extra fun alongside your strawberry lemonade treats.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you succeed.

Skipping the zest: Not using lemon zest can lead to bland cupcakes. Always add the zest for vibrant flavor.
Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can make your cupcakes dense. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
Incorrect oven temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can cause uneven baking. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
Not letting cupcakes cool: Frosting warm cupcakes can melt the frosting. Allow them to cool completely before decorating.
Ignoring ingredient temperatures: Using cold ingredients can affect the batter consistency. Make sure eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature.

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Place parchment paper between layers to prevent sticking.

Freezing Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

Freeze cupcakes without frosting for up to 2 months.
Use freezer-safe containers or wrap individually in plastic wrap.

Reheating Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
Microwave: Heat one cupcake at a time for 10-15 seconds. Check frequently to avoid drying out.
Stovetop: Place on a heat-safe plate and cover with foil over low heat for a few minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes?

To make these delightful cupcakes, follow the provided recipe, ensuring you blend lemon flavors with fresh strawberries in your frosting.

Can I use frozen strawberries in the frosting?

Yes, but fresh strawberries offer better flavor and texture. If using frozen, thaw and drain them well before adding.

What is unique about Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes?

These cupcakes combine refreshing lemonade flavor with sweet strawberry cream cheese frosting, making them perfect summer treats.

Can I customize the flavors of these cupcakes?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different fruits or flavored extracts in both the batter and frosting to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Lemonade Cupcakes are not just delicious but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different fruits or flavors, making them perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today and enjoy a refreshing twist on traditional cupcakes!